Ben Davies has explained how Tottenham are using rapid, first-time deliveries to unsettle defensive lines under Roberto De Zerbi.
In an official post-match Q&A published on Tottenham Hotspur’s official club website, defender Ben Davies broke down the tactical mechanics behind early, first-time deliveries following Spurs’ 2-2 pre-season draw against TSG Hoffenheim.
Davies found the net in the 20th minute of the match, meeting a sharp, first-time cross from Mateus Fernandes after a short corner routine. The sequence mirrored a similar goal created earlier in pre-season, where Andy Robertson picked out Richarlison with an immediate service into the penalty area.
When asked about the strategic importance of delivering the ball without taking a touch to set oneself first, Davies provided an insightful look into how Roberto De Zerbi’s tactical principles disrupt opposition defensive structures:
“I think the biggest thing it gives is that the defensive line’s not set. They don’t have a chance to get ready. I think it probably looks to a few people it might have been offside, but I don’t know if their back line gets out quickly enough because of how quickly the ball comes in. It’s a great ball and I’m happy to have nicked one there.”
Disrupting Opposing Defenses Through Rapid Service
The primary benefit of the first-time cross lies in its ability to deny opposition defenders the time needed to organize their back line. When wide players deliver immediately, defending teams cannot step out in unison to play an offside trap or adjust their body shape to clear incoming danger. Instead, the speed of the service forces defenders to react while retreating toward their own goal, giving attacking runners a distinct physical advantage.
This emphasis on quick ball recycling and set-piece variation has become a central feature of Tottenham’s pre-season preparations. By combining patient build-up play through the middle with sudden, unannounced service into the box, Spurs continue to catch defensive blocks off guard as they finalize their preparations for the new campaign.